World Music News

Paris to Cuba - Mario Grigorov

Sunday 28 June, 2009

It may be Winter here in Melbourne, Australia but from Paris to Cuba it's always Summer!

This sultry and sophisticated album is the perfect accompaniment for an afternoon of assorted Tapas washed down with Margaritas followed by dancing with smokey-eyed strangers.

Composed and created by Mario Grigorov, the ten tracks on Paris to Cuba conjure up an exotic blend of of ocean waves, cool breezes and sensual passion. Smooth guitar lines are complemented by muted trumpets and subtle percussion that almost will your feet to dance.

Mario Grigorov, the mastermind behind the record, is best known for conceiving and creating the 1998 classical crossover hit, Aria, with composer Paul Schwartz and was described by Douglas Levy as "the CD that could save classical music."

Mario explains his inspiration behind the album:

"Every time I go to Paris, I get inspired. I start thinking about ways I can embrace the city and absorb its magic...

This album takes me back to my time there, and I reflect on how I have always enjoyed traditional and classical French music - been intrigued by the use of melody and sultry textures.  I started playing with some melodies on the piano; inspired by the Parisian mood and architecture, I was trying to re-create the buildings I had seen that stood like frozen compositions. The compositions I began to write would soon lend themselves to a melding with the energy and simplicity of the music I also love from Cuba, along with all of its influences."

The international influence in Mario's music is clear (he was born in Bulgaria) and cross musical borders seamlessly. His musicians are very skilled - particularly the guitarist who is the prominent player and it's a good bet the multi-talented Mario himself is playing piano on the various tracks.

Three pieces are sung by the very talented Melissa Newman who is well known for her performances at venues such as The Russian Tea Room. With a voice described as "a cross between Billie Holiday and Patsy Cline", her singing adds a refreshing change of texture to the album - lifting it up on tracks such as Every Little Moment and Snake Eyes, the latter piece whisking me back to 1920's Paris - if you've seen the Anais Nin movie called Henry and June, you'll know exactly what I mean.

Overall there is a good variety of styles - Ice Hotel starts off with some great classic Rock and Roll type riffs before settling into it's groove while Magic Circus is a little quirky and the title track, Paris to Cuba has Vibraphone, Hawaiian style guitar and lush string arrangements.

If you're looking for an album to play at your next cocktail party, then Paris to Cuba will be a great addition to your CD collection and sure to get your guests asking about it. Or if you're looking for a romantic evening with that someone special, then you couldn't go far wrong - just don't forget the Mojito's, candlelight and your dancing shoes!

> Visit the Paris to Cuba website here

Free Video : Mario Grigorov, Live Pittsburgh

Mario Grigorov, Bulgarian-born, classically-trained pianist, plays the third song of his set in Pittsburgh, his own original, from the album "Rhymes with Orange" -- Cut Feathers.